What type of ERG is designed to specifically target ganglion cells?

A Pattern ERG is specifically designed to assess the function of the ganglion cells in the retina. This type of electroretinogram (ERG) utilizes a patterned visual stimulus, typically consisting of alternating light and dark stripes or checks, which evokes a response primarily from the retinal ganglion cells as they are responsible for processing and relaying visual information to the brain.

The unique nature of the pattern stimulus allows for a more direct investigation of the ganglion cells' function compared to other types of ERG. This focus on ganglion cell activity is particularly useful in clinical assessments for conditions affecting these specific cells, such as glaucoma or other optic nerve diseases.

In contrast, other types of ERGs, such as Multifocal ERG, Serial ERG, and Full-field ERG, sample various retinal layers and can provide information about rod and cone photoreceptors or broader retinal responses rather than isolating ganglion cell activity specifically.